Cluster Observation of Ion Outflow in Middle Altitude LLBL/Cusp from Different Origins

The ionosphere is the ionized part of upper atmosphere that caused mainly by photoionization solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) emission and atmospheric photochemistry process. ionospheric ions escape from populate Earth’s magnetosphere. In this case study, ion outflows two different origins were obtained spacecraft Cluster C1 in magnetospheric cusp region. One was reflection dispersed wind particles. other outflow passing through low latitude boundary layer (LLBL/cusp), which energized downward Poynting flux. Similar to reflected particles, outflowing cold could also extend high-latitude region with magnetic field line convection, mixed it up Based on observation region, particles determined, their unique mechanisms formation discussed. Results suggest strong electric associated particle precipitation may additionally accelerate flow LLBL/cusp.